French strike causes flight problems

Nearly 60% of flights at Paris Orly airport have been disrupted by a strike by air traffic controllers – and aviation authorities have warned that the problem could spread throughout this week. The BBC News website reports that air traffic controllers in central France are due to join in the strike today or tomorrow, which could affect many flights to and from the UK, and other European countries, because they use French air space. And a spokesman for Britain’s National Air Traffic Service reportedly told the Daily Mail: “If it spreads, the Paris controllers’ action could lead to delays in take-offs and longer flight times for UK flights. It is unclear as yet what effect such action could have but in a worst-case scenario it could cause problems for flights to and from Paris.” Simon Evans, of the Air Transport Users’ Council, added: “When something like this happens people are quite helpless. The airlines have had no notification and so cannot plan for such action. It is very difficult for airlines and their passengers.” Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad